Chapter 8, Problem 1RD

To determine

The density and composition of the Galilean moons vary with increasing distance from Jupiter.

Answer to Problem 1RD

The density and composition of the Galilean moons decrease with increasing distance from Jupiter because denser moons forming closer to the intense heat of the young Jupiter.

Explanation of Solution

The range of Galilean moons varies in from the size smaller than earth’s moon to slightly greater than the mercury. The density of the Galilean moons decreases with increase in distance from the Jupiter as similar to the density of terrestrial planets decreases with the increase in distance from the sun.

Io and Europa have large, iron-rich cores and rocky composition. Europa has a water or ice outer shell of few kilometres thickness. The composition of ice and water account for half of the total mass of the Ganymede and Callisto. In general, denser moons forming closer to the intense heat of the young Jupiter.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the density and composition of the Galilean moons decrease with increasing distance from Jupiter because denser moons forming closer to the intense heat of the young Jupiter.